Being a Supportive Friend During this Holiday Break

Winter break is here, which means you and your friends are probably spending more time online. While the holidays are a time for joy and connection, for some, the holiday season can be a lonely time away from their support system. So how can we all step up for friends looking for extra support during this time? We teamed up with Crisis Text Line to create a guide on how to be a supportive friend while prioritizing your own well-being:

Ask your friends how they’re feeling. It can be as easy as asking what their plans are for the holidays, and if there’s anything specific on their mind. Open communication is key.
Practice active listening when your friend shares their thoughts or feelings. Offer a nonjudgmental space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. It’s also important to avoid pressuring them to share more than they are comfortable with.
If a friend is engaging in online behavior that risks their mental health, help them become involved in positive online interactions. Share uplifting content, participate in virtual activities together, and suggest taking some time off social media.
Offer mental health resources and share them with your friends. Drop a link to our resource hub or tell them about how to reach Crisis Text Line–a free, confidential, 24/7 text-based mental health service in both English and Spanish. Individuals in need can text NoFiltr to 741741 to connect with a live, trained volunteer crisis counselor.
Remember to be mindful of your own well-being. If you’re feeling overwhelmed when supporting a friend, it’s okay to communicate that. Share your boundaries and let them know when you need time for self-care.

What can a supportive conversation look like?

Offering Help

Dec. 13, 2023

Being a supportive friend involves creating an understanding space for one another. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is there for them can make a significant difference.